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Wednesday, April 23, 2008

Field of Flowers

Field of Flowers, Fabric Postcard, (4"x6")Fannie Narte

"Field of Flowers" was created by painting the background with Neocolor II and adding flowers in the foreground by free-motion embroidery using Alison Holt's techniques. I used two different colored threads: a dark thread in the bobbin, and a medium colored thread in the top. The bobbin's tension was loosened and the top's tension was tightened in order to bring the bobbin's thread to the surface, which helps to create texture and lights and shadows. More Neocolor II was added after the embroidery was finished to unite the piece.

ALISON HOLT

Alison Holt's book, "Beginner's Guide to Machine Embroidered Flowers," is well-written and inspirational. I found her while researching "silk painting." Alison works on Habutai silk. She paints her background or focal points using silk paints, then adds free-motion embroidery.

After reading her book, I purchased her "Creating Machine Embroidery--Flowers and Landscapes" DVD. "Field of Flowers" is my attempt at two of the flowers included in her book and DVD. She does amazing free-motion embroidery work, also known as "thread painting." What's even more amazing is that she uses only two types of stitches: straight stitch and zig zag. You don't need a fancy sewing machine.

I started blogging in July of last year because I wanted to express my feelings, ideas and beliefs through art to my daughters, grandchildren and future generations. It was my way of leaving a legacy and reveal my heart and soul. It was my on-line heart/art journal.

In the beginning, this blog was not open to the public because I was writing for my family and friends, and I am an "extremely" private person. Surprise!

GOING PUBLIC

After a few weeks of blogging, I decided to go "public." And here I am, approaching my 200th consecutive post!

LESSONS FROM BLOGGING

Among the many things I've learned about blogging, the Internet, and myself, I've learned that my blogging style needed to reflect my personality--not my "non-fiction/essay" academic-default writing style. Blogging every day gave me a sense of "routine," which I discovered is important to me.

Blogging has also clarified my art, my ideas, my direction and my life. When I look back at my older posts, I see where I've been, how much I've grown, and where I'm going. For most of my life, writing each day was a habit and sometimes a necessity. I was an almost-daily-journal-writer before blogging.

GRATITUDE

I'm glad I opened "Imagine, Create, Inspire" to the public. If not, I would have deprived myself of personal improvement, opportunities for service and many friends.

i never knew that this existed,machine embroidery. it's terrific. i love reading your posts they are so interesting.i started blogging much the same time as you did, doing my 60b460 blog (which was my 60 things to do before I turned 60 in february this year)(see my profile). My son got me started as he has (many) blogs.(see prozacville etc, that's him!)Then I finished that off and decided to open another one. I love to do something every day, and am having so much fun and along the way, giving pleasure and fun too. It is now firmly part of my life. keep asking questions....

Your flowers are beautiful I really like the colors and the technique. Another thing for my to do list. Blogging has made me think about being creative everyday and is a great accounting of where I have been. I have found, one of the best rewards about blogging is the people I have met and the things I have learned.

Another great piece Fannie. I really need to do more with my neocolors.

Blogging to me is an outlet. I spend a lot of time alone and this lets me vent if needed, share a few life experiences, and post a few of the arts and crafty things I tackle. Blogging has also opened up a whole new world for friendships in which I will always cherish.

Hi Fannie-thanks for sharing this inspiring resource. Your flowers are lovely. It will be fun to see all the wonderful things you are sure to do with this technique.I did some thread painting many years ago when I wanted to make a special nightgown that I could wear while recoving from surgery since I knew I'd be having visitors. I'll have to try it again one of these days!

Hello Fannie. You ask such insightful questions that make me think about myself. Thats what I love about your blog (besides the beautiful artwork)! But I've thought about it and decided I have a couple of reasons: 1. To share my art with someone besides my family. I believe artwork is meant to be shared. 2. To meet other artists who share their art and tips, like you!

Hi, Beth. I'm glad you share your art with all of us. It would be a loss to us, otherwise. I'm glad we met too, and you share wonderful tips on your blog as well. Sharing is an eternal circle; giving, receiving. Nice.